Troubleshooting Guide: The Most Common Reasons You are Getting an Inaccurate Reading from Your Moisture Meter

The main goal of using a moisture meter is to gather information with precision and accuracy. If things start to go awry, it can cause major issues when you depend on obtaining reliable, instantaneous results.

Kett moisture meters are built to withstand the test of time. They are durable enough to be used out in the field for years. We’ve even worked with clients who have acquired some of our meters that have been heavily used for over 25 years --and they still work beautifully!

If you are struggling to get an accurate reading with your moisture meter, have no fear. Kett’s moisture meters are engineered to work—and to work very well. There are several things you can check to ensure that you are getting the best possible measurement readings.

Check Your Calibrations

Is your moisture meter set to the proper calibration? Especially if you’re taking readings of various materials, you will want to ensure that you’ve calibrated your moisture meter for whatever it is that needs to be measured. With a Kett moisture meter, many calibrations come preinstalled with each meter, but it’s important to be sure that you’ve selected the right one.

An improper calibration can have a huge impact on your reading. Even using the wrong grain calibration with a grain moisture meter, for barley instead of corn, as an example, will give you an inaccurate reading.

Check to be sure that you have the correct calibration setting, and that you are using the right meter for the job. A cement moisture meter won’t give you the right reading for paper or wood, for example.

Proper Care

Are you correctly storing your moisture meter after use? And wiping it down with a dry cloth after each use to remove excess moisture that can lead to rust damage? Properly storing and drying your moisture meter can extend the working life of your moisture meter and help to give you the best results time and time again.

While the meters are made to be durable, and to hold up to years and years in the field, accidents can happen. Storing your moisture meter can prevent issues caused by water, or save your meter from damage by being dropped or crushed. If you think your meter has been damaged in some way, let us know! We want to be sure you have the most accurate meter on the market.

A Damaged Pin

Are the pins for your meter intact? Universal moisture meters have pins that, if exposed to the elements, can eventually rust, or potentially get damaged. While your meter is made to last, occasionally your meter may need new pins for the most accurate readings. Inspect your meter, especially the pin for impact damage, rust, or other issues that may interfere with the meter and sample contact.

Using the Correct Sample

Are you taking one reading of your material or multiple readings? Test in a few areas to be sure you have a good idea of the overall product variation, especially if you are dealing with a large volume. As an example, if you are checking to make sure a large stack of high-quality woodworking product has properly acclimated to its indoor environment, you will want to check in multiple areas on several individual pieces of the wood.

If you are taking readings of grain and seed, you will want to be sure that it has cooled after the drying process. Take readings from several locations throughout the batch. Waiting for a concrete slab to dry or cure? Check in multiple locations.

Still having issues with your moisture meter? Contact us! We are passionate about ensuring that you have the highest-quality, most accurate meter available, and we are happy to service your meter so that you do indeed have the very best.